Venue & Location

Blecks Training and Conference Centre - Montagu, Western Cape, South Africa

Blecks Training and Conference Centre

Robertson and Montagu, Western Cape, South Africa

The Blecks Training and Conference Centre provides an ideal setting for the XIII International Workshop on Sap Flow. Located in the beautiful Robertson and Montagu region of the Western Cape, the venue offers modern conference facilities surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Klein Karoo, perfect for a workshop focused on plant water relations and environmental research.

Why Montagu?

Montagu is renowned for its diverse vegetation types, ranging from fynbos to succulent karoo, making it an ideal location for field demonstrations and practical applications of sap flow measurement techniques. The region's unique climate and plant communities provide excellent opportunities for hands-on research activities.

Montagu landscape

The beautiful landscapes of Montagu, Western Cape

Conference Facilities

Modern amenities for a successful workshop experience

Conference Halls

Modern conference facilities with seating for plenary sessions, breakout rooms for technical sessions, and spaces for poster presentations.

High-Speed Internet

Complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout the venue for presentations, video conferencing, and online collaboration.

Audio-Visual Equipment

State-of-the-art projection systems, sound equipment, and technical support for all presentations and demonstrations.

Catering Services

On-site catering with local cuisine, coffee stations, and accommodation for dietary requirements and preferences.

Parking Facilities

Ample secure parking available on-site for workshop participants and visitors.

Accessibility

Fully accessible facilities ensuring all participants can comfortably attend all workshop activities.

Getting to Montagu

Travel options and directions to reach the workshop venue

International Flights

Cape Town International Airport (CPT)

Distance: Approximately 120km (1.5-2 hours drive)

  • Major international gateway to South Africa
  • Direct flights from Europe, Asia, and other African cities
  • Car rental services available at the airport
  • Shuttle services can be arranged to Montagu

Driving Directions

From Cape Town International Airport

Route: N2 → R60 → Montagu

  • Take N2 highway towards Somerset West
  • Turn onto R60 towards Worcester/Robertson
  • Continue on R60 through Robertson to Montagu
  • Well-signposted route with scenic mountain passes

Public Transport

Bus Services

Intercape/Translux: Cape Town to Worcester, then local transport

  • Regular bus services from Cape Town to Worcester
  • Local taxi/transport services from Worcester to Montagu
  • Workshop organizers can assist with transport coordination

Airport Transfers

Organized Shuttle Services

Workshop Shuttle: Coordinated transport for participants

  • Group shuttle service from Cape Town Airport
  • Advance booking required during registration
  • Cost-effective option for workshop participants
  • Contact organizers for booking details

Accommodation Options

Comfortable lodging options in and around Montagu

Hotels & Guesthouses

Montagu Country Hotel

Historic hotel in the heart of Montagu with modern amenities and traditional charm.

From R1,200/night 5 minutes to venue

Mimosa Lodge

Boutique guesthouse with beautiful mountain views and personalized service.

From R900/night 10 minutes to venue

Montagu Rose Guest House

Comfortable accommodation with garden settings and local hospitality.

From R800/night 8 minutes to venue

Self-Catering Options

Mountain View Cottages

Self-contained cottages ideal for longer stays with kitchen facilities.

From R1,500/night (4-6 people) 15 minutes to venue

Airbnb Options

Various private accommodations available through Airbnb platform.

From R400-1,000/night Various locations

Budget Options

Montagu Backpackers

Budget-friendly accommodation with shared and private room options.

From R300/night 12 minutes to venue

Camping Options

Camping sites available at local caravan parks and nature reserves.

From R150/night 20 minutes to venue

Booking Information

Early booking is recommended, especially during November which is a popular tourist season in the Western Cape. Workshop participants are encouraged to book accommodation as soon as possible after registration.

Group Bookings: Some venues offer group rates for workshop participants. Contact the workshop organizers for assistance with group accommodation arrangements.

Explore Montagu & Region

Discover the natural beauty and attractions of the Western Cape

Natural Attractions & Field Sites

The Montagu region offers exceptional opportunities for botanical and ecological research:

Langeberg Mountains

Dramatic mountain landscapes with diverse fynbos vegetation and hiking trails offering spectacular views.

Succulent Karoo

Unique semi-arid vegetation with remarkable plant diversity, ideal for comparative sap flow studies.

Fynbos Vegetation

Indigenous Cape floral kingdom vegetation types providing diverse plant species for research.

Montagu Hot Springs

Natural thermal springs perfect for relaxation after intensive workshop sessions.

Wine Estates

Local wine farms offering tours and tastings, including fruit production systems for field studies.

Nature Reserves

Protected areas with pristine vegetation for field research and demonstration activities.

Field Research Sites

The workshop will include field visits to:

  • Local fruit farms (apple, stone fruit production)
  • Indigenous vegetation sites
  • Experimental research plots
  • Water-stressed environments
  • Riparian vegetation areas

November Climate

Temperature: 15-28°C (60-82°F)
Weather: Warm, dry summer conditions
Rainfall: Low precipitation
Field Work: Ideal conditions for outdoor activities

Practical Information

Time Zone: South Africa Standard Time (SAST) - UTC+2
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)
Language: English, Afrikaans
Electricity: 220V, Type M plug (3-pin)

Local Services

Medical facilities available in town
Supermarkets and local shops
Fuel stations and vehicle services
Local research facilities

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services: 10177 or 112
Police: 10111
Medical Emergency: 10177
Workshop Organizers: Contact details will be provided